Local shoppers’ treasures at Winter Farmers’ Markets

The holidays are coming! The holidays are coming! While this time of year might not really be an unexpected invasion, it can certainly feel that way sometimes.

Seacoast Eat Local encourages everyone to take time out of the hectic pace and reconnect locally by attending the December Winter Farmers’ Markets. What better opportunity to take a deep breath, shop for beautiful, healthy local food and unique gifts, and reawaken to the beauty of the holiday season?

The December winter markets run from 10am to 2pm on alternating Saturdays in two different locations: They start December 1st in Rollinsford at the Wentworth Greenhouses, then will be December 8th in Exeter at the Exeter High School, and December 22nd again in Rollinsford at Wentworth Greenhouses.

At each market, shoppers can purchase their holiday party and meal needs, including freshly harvested vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, winter squash, and onions, as well as eggs, cheese, and herbs – and even pick up pre-made meals for those busy weeknights. They can also purchase distinctive gift items such as salts, handmade lotions and soaps, cheese kits, or create their own themed gift tote bag, such as a breakfast bag with tea, honey, and coffee cake or a soup bag with root vegetables, herbs, and bread.

“It’s just such a different atmosphere from the malls and other big store shopping venues,” commented Jessica Sheldon, manager of the winter markets. “Each vendor is bringing a bit of their heart and soul into their product, whether it’s produce from the farm, spun wool from their sheep, or wine from the vineyard. Shoppers not only receive quality goods, but they also benefit from supporting the local economy and farms and reconnecting with their friends and neighbors at these community events.”

Plus, she noted, with live music and other activities added in, they’re just plain fun for the whole family to enjoy.

The December 8th market is generously underwritten by Exeter Hospital, and supported by Federal Savings Bank and the Sustainability Institute at UNH.

The December 22nd market is generously underwritten by Wentworth Greenhouses and Wentworth-Douglass Hospital.

The markets will start up again after the holidays on January 12 in Exeter.

SNAP/EBT benefits are welcome at the markets. Anyone interested in the dates and locations for upcoming markets, as well as more information and a vendor list for each one, should go towww.seacoasteatlocal.org, check out the Winter Farmers’ Market page, and sign up for the e-newsletter which will deliver all the latest news on local markets and food.